CATCH AND COOK CRAWFISH

Catching Crawdads at Gunlock Reservoir State Park, Utah
A Family-Friendly Outdoor Adventure

Gunlock Reservoir State Park in southern Utah is a hidden gem for those seeking a family-friendly, hands-on outdoor adventure. Nestled in the red rock country near St. George, the park offers more than just scenic views and boating—it’s a prime spot for catching crawdads, also known as crayfish. For families with kids, there's hardly a better way to spend a warm summer afternoon than wading into the shallows, scooping up these freshwater crustaceans, and finishing the day with a catch and cook feast by the water.

This simple yet exciting activity brings people of all ages together. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to introduce your children to fishing and nature, crawdad catching is a perfect mix of recreation and education. It's inexpensive, easy to learn, and, most importantly, fun.

A Fun and Educational Experience for Kids
Gunlock Reservoir’s calm, clear waters and gentle shoreline make it an ideal place for young adventurers. The best time to catch crawdads is late spring through early fall, when the water is warm and the crawdads are active in the shallows. All you need is a bucket, a net, and some bait—raw chicken or fish heads tied to a string work great. Kids love watching the little creatures scuttle out from under rocks and plants to investigate the bait, and even more so when they manage to grab one.

The thrill of the chase, the splash of the water, and the excitement of finding crawdads hiding under submerged rocks keep children engaged for hours. For parents, it’s a great way to get the kids off screens and into nature, while teaching basic outdoor skills and respect for wildlife. It’s also a chance to talk about aquatic ecosystems and how everything plays a role in the reservoir’s environment.

Outdoor Recreation for All Ages
Beyond crawdad catching, Gunlock Reservoir is a haven for recreation. The park offers boating, paddleboarding, and swimming in a beautiful desert setting, with picnic areas and plenty of space for shoreline fun. The surrounding red cliffs and desert vegetation make for incredible views, especially at sunset. Many families choose to spend the whole day at the reservoir, mixing in some swimming, hiking, or kayaking with their crawdad adventures.

It’s common to see families with chairs set up at the water’s edge, coolers ready, and kids running in and out of the water, proudly showing off their catch. Crawdad catching is not only an activity—it becomes a bonding experience that creates lasting memories.

Catch and Cook: A Tasty Reward
One of the best parts of crawdad catching is what comes after: the catch and cook. Crawdads are edible and delicious when properly cleaned and cooked. After your adventure, take the time to rinse them thoroughly, purge them in fresh water, and then boil them with some salt, spices, and maybe a bit of lemon or Old Bay seasoning.

Cooking and eating your catch right there by the lake—if regulations and fire safety permit—or back at your campsite or home adds a satisfying end to the day. It teaches kids about sustainable harvesting, where their food comes from, and how to respect natural resources.

Remember to check local guidelines for fishing licenses or catch limits before harvesting crawdads. In Utah, crawdads are classified as non-game aquatic wildlife and can often be caught without a license, especially if using them for personal consumption. But it’s always best to double-check with Utah’s Division of Wildlife Resources.

A Perfect Day at Gunlock Reservoir
From the clear blue waters to the red rock backdrop, Gunlock Reservoir State Park offers a rich and accessible outdoor experience for families. Crawdad catching is simple, thrilling, and connects children and adults alike to the natural world. Whether you come for a day or camp overnight, it’s an ideal place to relax, unwind, and create meaningful memories with your kids.

So pack a cooler, grab a net and some string, and head out to Gunlock for a family-friendly adventure you won’t forget. The crawdads are waiting!